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I) Introduction: What is Sermon Style? Why is it important? "Though substance is of greater importance than style, style should not be an afterthought." Preachers should try and be a scientist with regards to hermeneutics and exegesis and an artist with regards to homiletics.
When it comes to good preaching it is not only what we say but how we say it. This is especially true in the day and age in which we live.
Faithful pastors typically exegete the text the same way; the difference between a good preacher and a great preacher often comes back to homiletics. Many popular preachers sacrifice content and depth in effort to be viewed as relevant and often in hopes of drawing larger crowds. We should strive to excel at both (exposition and application/implication; substance and style).
II) The Advantages of Style- A) It draws and repels people for good and bad. B) It can help people to listen; (do not be the bland leading the bland). C) It can help people receive the truth; (like salt on a steak). D) It can help people digest the truth; (like digestive enzymes). E) It can help people remember the timeless truths in your sermon. F) It helps people share the principles they learned as they communicate this message with others. G) It can help people apply the text with greater ease (James 1:22-25); application on Monday-Saturday is the crucial. Liberty in Christ is freedom to do the right thing.
III) The Categories of Style- Sermon packaging begins at the study desk. When you write a manuscript (whether or not you bring it into the pulpit) write with your ears. You are not writing a theological journal you are composing a sermon manuscript. Utilize repetition, good illustrations, and when possible, connected introductions and conclusions. Ask questions, like: Do you layer your words? Do you diversify your word choices? Do you use short headings? In this sermon did I magnify the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit? Did you summon people to action (believe, repent, etc)?
Issues to consider surrounding verbal communication. (pace/intensity/volume/pitch/tone/vocabulary/word choices/figures of speech//repetition/emphasis/urgency/energy/clarity/accuracy/energy/depth/utilizing indicative/imperative/interrogative/exclamatory).
Issues to consider surrounding non-verbal communication.
(eye contact/appropriate hand gestures/facial expressions/countenance/body posture/physical appearance).
IV) The Legitimacy of Style- A) Diversity: Even God has chosen to speak in many different ways (Hebrews 1:1-4). B) God has chosen to communicate through many different genres. C) Paul spoke and acted like a mother and a father. D) The 4 gospels are similar yet quite unique. Different vocabulary, etc. E) Note the difference of style between Paul and Peter and Hebrews.
Style in expository preaching will conclude in a future blog article.
